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Evaluating a Response to a Canine Leptospirosis Outbreak in Dogs Using an Owner Survey
Sierra Villanueva1, Cord Brundage2
1Animal and Veterinary Science Department, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA 99701, USA.
Veterinary Sciences
|February 26, 2025
Summary
Many dog owners are unaware of canine leptospirosis, its signs, and zoonotic potential. This knowledge gap highlights the need for better public health education on preventing this bacterial disease.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Public Health
- Zoonotic Disease Epidemiology
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a significant bacterial zoonotic disease transmitted via contaminated environments and animal urine.
- Controlling environmental spread is crucial for public health due to human susceptibility.
- A 2021 leptospirosis outbreak in Los Angeles County prompted an investigation into dog owner awareness.
Observation:
- A survey distributed via Instagram and Facebook targeted dog owners in Los Angeles County.
- Most respondents (90.2%) had a primary veterinarian, but vaccination rates varied.
- A significant majority of dog owners were unaware of canine leptospirosis (68%) and its zoonotic nature (77%).
Findings:
- Dog owner awareness regarding leptospirosis, its symptoms, and zoonotic transmission is notably low.
- The study identified a critical gap in knowledge about canine leptospirosis prevention among dog owners.
- Veterinary care access did not correlate with increased awareness in this survey sample.
Implications:
- Findings underscore the urgent need for targeted public health campaigns to educate dog owners about leptospirosis.
- Improved owner education can enhance preventative measures and reduce disease transmission.
- Further research is needed to understand factors influencing vaccination rates and knowledge dissemination.
